What You Need to Know
• King Haakon VIII of Norway delivered his first speech on August 29, 2026, following his father’s death.
• King Harald V passed away at the age of 89 after a 35-year reign due to haemolytic anaemia.
• Tens of thousands of mourners gathered outside the royal palace in Oslo to pay their respects.
King Haakon VIII, the new monarch of Norway, delivered his inaugural speech on August 29, 2026, a day after the death of his father, King Harald V. In his address, King Haakon expressed gratitude for the public’s support during this mourning period and praised his father’s legacy of representing Norway with “pride and joy.” King Harald V, who died at age 89 after a long battle with haemolytic anaemia, had served as king for 35 years. The government has declared a national mourning period, and memorial services are scheduled across the country. King Haakon emphasized the importance of democracy and equality, stating that he, along with his family, would listen to the Norwegian people as he assumes his role.
Why It Matters
The transition from King Harald V to King Haakon VIII marks a significant moment in Norway’s monarchy, reflecting continuity and change within the royal family. King Harald’s reign was characterized by his commitment to public service and representation of Norway on the global stage. The national mourning period underscores the deep respect and affection Norwegians held for King Harald. As King Haakon prepares to take his oath, he faces the challenge of leading the monarchy amid recent controversies involving his family, which may impact public perception and the royal institution’s future.
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